Pictured: Nick Franklin, Community Sports Dad of the Year 2025
There are the dads who spend their weekends on the sidelines, and then there are the ones who are practically keeping the whole club running.
Whether they’re coaching junior teams, washing uniforms, organising fundraisers, managing rosters or spending their evenings driving kids to training, Australia’s sporting dads are being celebrated with the return of the Community Sports Dad of the Year award.
Nominations are now open for the 2026 award, which is supported by Philips Water and aims to shine a light on the dads and father figures who give their time to help local sport thrive.
The winning dad will receive a Philips Reverse Osmosis Water Station, valued at $1,299, and their community sporting club will score a $5,000 Rebel Sport voucher to put towards new sporting equipment or clothing.
The person who submits the winning nomination will also receive a Philips Multigroom 7000 grooming kit, valued at $229.
This year’s campaign has also welcomed Socceroos goalkeeper Andrew Redmayne as its Community Sports Dad of the Year Ambassador.
A dad himself to Banjo and Poppy, Andrew was previously a finalist in the Celebrity Sports Dad of the Year Award and knows just how much community sport can mean to families.
“As a dad, I’ve already seen how much community sport gives kids,” he said. “It’s not just about learning the game – it’s about building confidence, friendships and creating memories that last a lifetime. Behind every team are mums, dads and volunteers who give up countless hours to make those experiences possible.
“This award is a chance to recognise the dads who make such a big difference to their clubs and local communities.”
He is encouraging Australians to think about the dads who are always there, whether they’re front and centre on game day or working away behind the scenes.
“If you know a dad who’s always there for the kids and never asks for anything in return, I’d encourage you to nominate him.”
The award was created to recognise the often-unsung volunteers who keep Australia’s local sporting clubs moving.
Community Sports Dad of the Year founder Paul Masluk said, “Community sport relies on the people who keep turning up. They coach, encourage kids, organise events and take on all the little jobs that are not always seen.
“This award is our chance to recognise those dads and say thank you for what they give to their clubs, their families and the next generation.”
Last year’s winner, Nick Franklin, was recognised for his work with the Gympie & District Hockey Association, where he coaches and manages junior teams and supports young players throughout the club.
“Like most volunteers, I never got involved for recognition,” said Nick. “You see something that needs doing and step in to help. Watching the kids improve, build confidence, make friends and feel like they belong is what makes the time worthwhile.”
So, if there’s a dad in your local sporting community who seems to be everywhere at once, now is the time to give him a little credit.
Nominations are free and can be submitted in 100 words or less, with entries closing at midnight AEST on Thursday, August 27th.
The 2026 winner will be announced ahead of Father’s Day on Sunday, September 6th.
For more information, click here.
